Try this easy method for getting rid of scale on your houseplants. Scale are very destructive pests for houseplants and can kill them. Treating with isopropyl alcohol can eradicate scale and save your houseplant.
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Today’s topic is scale, one of the worst indoor pests. They’re extremely persistent and can cause serious damage to houseplants. My poor arrowhead plant has been infested with scale for some time. I’ve been treating it and want to share what has worked well for me.
I’ve had good results using 91% isopropyl alcohol. Although neem oil can help prevent scale from reproducing, once the pests are present, alcohol is far more effective. Spray the alcohol generously on the affected areas. I recommend testing on a single leaf first, though I’ve had no problems with most houseplants.
Once sprayed, gently wipe the scale off with your fingers. It’s easier to do this without gloves, and it helps to have a bowl of water nearby to rinse your hands. The alcohol breaks down the insect’s exoskeleton, making it easier to remove them without damaging the plant.
Be sure to go up and down the stems and leaves. The key is persistence: spray thoroughly, wait a bit, spray again, and then wipe. Repeat this every 1 to 2 weeks until no scale is visible. After a month of no sightings, check again—these pests can return.
You can also rinse the plant with a moderate spray of water afterward to remove any remaining residue. Once the infestation is under control, wait to repot into fresh soil, as scale eggs may have fallen into the current soil. Lightly spraying the soil surface and treating with neem oil in conjunction helps prevent re-infestation.
Scale insects can kill houseplants and cause visible symptoms like yellowing leaves, which indicates they’re sucking chlorophyll. So it’s important to act fast and isolate the infected plant to prevent spreading.
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FAQs About Treating Scale Insects on Houseplants
What is the best treatment for scale on houseplants?
Using 91% isopropyl alcohol sprayed directly on the affected plant parts is highly effective at killing and dislodging scale insects.
Can neem oil get rid of scale once it’s present?
Neem oil helps prevent scale reproduction, but once scale is present, isopropyl alcohol is a more effective treatment for removing the pests.
How often should I treat my plant for scale?
Treat every one to two weeks until no more scale is visible. Check again after a month to ensure the infestation hasn’t returned.
Should I repot the plant after treating for scale?
Wait to repot until you’re sure the infestation is gone, as scale eggs can fall into the soil and reinfect the plant.
How can I prevent scale from spreading to other plants?
Isolate the infested plant and wash your hands or gloves thoroughly after treatment to prevent spreading scale to healthy plants.
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